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The Fifth Doll
The bestselling author of The Paper Magician Series transports readers to a darkly whimsical world where strange magic threatens a quiet village that only a courageous woman can save.
Matrona lives in an isolated village, where her life is centered on pleasing her parents. She’s diligent in her chores and has agreed to marry a man of their choosing. But a visit to Slava, the local tradesman, threatens to upend her entire life.
Entering his empty house, Matrona discovers a strange collection of painted nesting dolls—one for every villager. Fascinated, she can’t resist the urge to open the doll with her father’s face. But when her father begins acting strangely, she realizes Slava’s dolls are much more than they seem.
When he learns what she’s done, Slava seizes the opportunity to give Matrona stewardship over the dolls—whether she wants it or not. Forced to open one of her own dolls every three days, she falls deeper into the grim power of Slava’s creations. But nothing can prepare her for the profound secret hiding inside the fifth doll.
Matrona lives in an isolated village, where her life is centered on pleasing her parents. She’s diligent in her chores and has agreed to marry a man of their choosing. But a visit to Slava, the local tradesman, threatens to upend her entire life.
Entering his empty house, Matrona discovers a strange collection of painted nesting dolls—one for every villager. Fascinated, she can’t resist the urge to open the doll with her father’s face. But when her father begins acting strangely, she realizes Slava’s dolls are much more than they seem.
When he learns what she’s done, Slava seizes the opportunity to give Matrona stewardship over the dolls—whether she wants it or not. Forced to open one of her own dolls every three days, she falls deeper into the grim power of Slava’s creations. But nothing can prepare her for the profound secret hiding inside the fifth doll.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2017
1777 people are currently reading
5211 people want to read
About the author
Charlie N. Holmberg
53 books8,725 followersCharlie N. Holmberg is a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author of fantasy and romance fiction, including the Paper Magician series, the Spellbreaker series, and the Whimbrel House series, and writes contemporary romance under C. N. Holmberg. She is published in over twenty languages and is a Goodreads Choice Award, ALA, and RITA finalist. Born in Salt Lake City, Charlie was raised a Trekkie alongside three sisters who also have boy names. A BYU alumna, she discovered in her thirties that she’s actually a cat person. She lives with her family in Utah. Visit her at www.charlienholmberg.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 864 reviews
March 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, the plot was different and imaginative. It kept me wanting more, The characters were interesting and the main character was so believable, it was fun flowing through and trying to figure out the big picture within was fun. It was well written. I am completely intrigued and amazed at how the story developed. Who knew Russian Dolls could be scary! Not sure how I feel about the cliffhanger at the end. But it was a magical, mystery adventure, what's not to love!
November 8, 2018
I had high hopes for this beautifully covered sci-fi fantasy novel, however, it didn’t live up to what I was imagining it to be.
What I didn’t realise was this is apparently Young Adult book, according to Goodreads anyway. Knowing this after I read it, it makes a lot of sense in relation to my issues with the book.
I enjoyed the writing in this one, even though it was reasonably simplistic in style. The descriptions in this are vivid, it was easy to imagine the quiet and old-fashioned village the characters live in. When it comes to character conversations, some books get it really wrong and all the speech seems jilted and fake. In The Fifth Doll, however, I think the conversations were done really well, even if at times what the characters were saying seemed a little juvenile… but we’ll get onto that…
Our main character in this story is Matrona, 26-years-old and arranged to be married to a wealthy, respected member of the village. She lives as a dairymaid with her mother and father and her life revolves around her chores. That all changes when she stumbles across the local tradesman’s room full of dolls, with a doll for each person in the village. Now, this is where I get confused about the YA labelling – I thought YA books were always about young adults? 26 isn’t old, but you’re pushing it if you’re still calling yourself a young adult at that point… I’m afraid to say you’re a fully fledged adult by this point, there’s no shame in that!
Matrona definitely comes across as a lot younger than her age but you could say that’s due to her lifestyle and the way in which the village runs. Even though I can make excuses for Matrona’s immaturity, it still got on my nerves. A big plot point in this story was her impending marriage and the crush she has on a fellow 19-year-old villager (who she used to babysit, a little bit weird…). The romance in this book definitely felt like a school playground scenario and I think that’s where the YA label comes in. Even though there is mention of a marriage, the love story is actually about her first love and it’s very schoolgirl crush, a.k.a cringe!
The rest of the characters in this story weren’t anything to behold, and honestly, they all felt a little lack-lustre. I like it when you can feel the author investing themselves in their characters, but I didn’t feel that connection here.
Moving on to the actual story, I was expecting far more from the story. That’s not to say the way this one played out wasn’t interesting and clever, it was, but it was the bare minimum it could be without becoming a bad story. There was so much more that Holmberg could have done to expand the characters, the mystery behind the dolls, and even the ending. This is only a short book at 250 pages, it could have easily been stretched to 300 without making it an exhausting read.
Another issue I had with this story, which I also think points to the YA label, is that this felt much more geared towards telling us about Matrona’s romance than it did the dolls. Maybe if the lovey-dovey bits had been taken away this would have been a more enjoyable story for me. I really didn’t give a damn about if Matrona and her 19-year-old boy toy got together in the end, I wanted to know about the creepy Russian nesting dolls with everyone’s faces on!
Overall this book wasn’t bad. It did have an interesting and unique story when it came to the dolls (as per advertised) but there were too many distractions (the romance) for the story to fully flourish and blow me away. I also wasn’t a fan of the YA and adult themes mixing, but maybe that’s because I’m not a YA fan altogether. At the end of the day, there were elements of this book I did enjoy and I would happily recommend it to someone looking for an easy fantasy read, but it definitely wasn’t my favourite.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What I didn’t realise was this is apparently Young Adult book, according to Goodreads anyway. Knowing this after I read it, it makes a lot of sense in relation to my issues with the book.
I enjoyed the writing in this one, even though it was reasonably simplistic in style. The descriptions in this are vivid, it was easy to imagine the quiet and old-fashioned village the characters live in. When it comes to character conversations, some books get it really wrong and all the speech seems jilted and fake. In The Fifth Doll, however, I think the conversations were done really well, even if at times what the characters were saying seemed a little juvenile… but we’ll get onto that…
Our main character in this story is Matrona, 26-years-old and arranged to be married to a wealthy, respected member of the village. She lives as a dairymaid with her mother and father and her life revolves around her chores. That all changes when she stumbles across the local tradesman’s room full of dolls, with a doll for each person in the village. Now, this is where I get confused about the YA labelling – I thought YA books were always about young adults? 26 isn’t old, but you’re pushing it if you’re still calling yourself a young adult at that point… I’m afraid to say you’re a fully fledged adult by this point, there’s no shame in that!
Matrona definitely comes across as a lot younger than her age but you could say that’s due to her lifestyle and the way in which the village runs. Even though I can make excuses for Matrona’s immaturity, it still got on my nerves. A big plot point in this story was her impending marriage and the crush she has on a fellow 19-year-old villager (who she used to babysit, a little bit weird…). The romance in this book definitely felt like a school playground scenario and I think that’s where the YA label comes in. Even though there is mention of a marriage, the love story is actually about her first love and it’s very schoolgirl crush, a.k.a cringe!
The rest of the characters in this story weren’t anything to behold, and honestly, they all felt a little lack-lustre. I like it when you can feel the author investing themselves in their characters, but I didn’t feel that connection here.
Moving on to the actual story, I was expecting far more from the story. That’s not to say the way this one played out wasn’t interesting and clever, it was, but it was the bare minimum it could be without becoming a bad story. There was so much more that Holmberg could have done to expand the characters, the mystery behind the dolls, and even the ending. This is only a short book at 250 pages, it could have easily been stretched to 300 without making it an exhausting read.
Another issue I had with this story, which I also think points to the YA label, is that this felt much more geared towards telling us about Matrona’s romance than it did the dolls. Maybe if the lovey-dovey bits had been taken away this would have been a more enjoyable story for me. I really didn’t give a damn about if Matrona and her 19-year-old boy toy got together in the end, I wanted to know about the creepy Russian nesting dolls with everyone’s faces on!
Overall this book wasn’t bad. It did have an interesting and unique story when it came to the dolls (as per advertised) but there were too many distractions (the romance) for the story to fully flourish and blow me away. I also wasn’t a fan of the YA and adult themes mixing, but maybe that’s because I’m not a YA fan altogether. At the end of the day, there were elements of this book I did enjoy and I would happily recommend it to someone looking for an easy fantasy read, but it definitely wasn’t my favourite.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2021
What a delightful novel. Author Charlie Holmberg has a beautiful sense of style and world building. You find yourself thoroughly immersed in this quaint little Russian village where everything is lovely and delightful for the most part, even though Matrona, our protagonist, and the reader, are left with the lingering sense something is not quite right.
I truly enjoyed this book throughout, especially towards the end as the plot began to pick up speed. The trope may be something we've seen before, but the author gives it her own flair, and it's no less enjoyable. Matrona is 26, but she seems to be caught in time so that her emotions and thoughts are that of a 16-year-old. She must work to save her village before all is lost.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
I truly enjoyed this book throughout, especially towards the end as the plot began to pick up speed. The trope may be something we've seen before, but the author gives it her own flair, and it's no less enjoyable. Matrona is 26, but she seems to be caught in time so that her emotions and thoughts are that of a 16-year-old. She must work to save her village before all is lost.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
August 8, 2017
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So here be me honest musings . . .
So as usual the cover drew me in. And the premise is quite fun. A girl accidentally finds a room in a neighbor’s house that contains matryoshka (nesting) dolls. The catch is that there is one painted to look like every villager. Why is there a doll painted with her face? This glimpse leads her to be drawn into the mystery of her neighbor Slava’s world. He wants her to be the next caretaker of the dolls and their magic. The catch is that for every one of her dolls that she opens, serious consequences occur that expose her to the truth she doesn’t know how to handle.
I liked the ideas in this book but unfortunately the writing does not do them justice. The main character, Matrona, is 26 but acts like a very immature twelve year old. She is more concerned with her worry over not being loved by her betrothed and going through with her arranged marriage then the problems of the village being controlled by Slava. At the same time, she has a crush on another neighbor from a less prosperous family and waffles about that too. Her naivete grew tiresome.
All of the characters seemed flat, Matrona included. I understand magic is involved but everyone seemed like inhuman cardboard cutouts. I would have liked full fleshed out people.
While the first two consequences of Matrona’s dolls were especially interesting, the plot was confusing overall. There were periods of intense information dropping, especially in the beginning, and then other parts where nothing happened. There are entire sections with Matrona wandering around the village waffling over her love life. Her love interest falls in love with her in just a week. Part of the action was delayed because there were 3 day gaps between opening the next doll. The villain didn’t really do anything other than intimidate Matrona and disappears for entire sections of the book so that Matrona can do something to further the plot.
Then Matrona has a vision in Chapter 16 / 73% in and the book had a sharp decline that lasted through the end. The explanations for the mystery of the dolls and Matrona’s decisions and methods in fighting back were so lackluster. I was so close to the end at that point that I finished so I could see how the author chose to resolve the issues. Again interesting concepts but poor execution.
I seem to be in the minority so far with this opinion so take it with a grain of sea salt. If ye chose to read it, I hope ye like it far better than I. I just know I won’t be readin’ another book by this author.
So lastly . . .
Thank you 47North!
check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
So as usual the cover drew me in. And the premise is quite fun. A girl accidentally finds a room in a neighbor’s house that contains matryoshka (nesting) dolls. The catch is that there is one painted to look like every villager. Why is there a doll painted with her face? This glimpse leads her to be drawn into the mystery of her neighbor Slava’s world. He wants her to be the next caretaker of the dolls and their magic. The catch is that for every one of her dolls that she opens, serious consequences occur that expose her to the truth she doesn’t know how to handle.
I liked the ideas in this book but unfortunately the writing does not do them justice. The main character, Matrona, is 26 but acts like a very immature twelve year old. She is more concerned with her worry over not being loved by her betrothed and going through with her arranged marriage then the problems of the village being controlled by Slava. At the same time, she has a crush on another neighbor from a less prosperous family and waffles about that too. Her naivete grew tiresome.
All of the characters seemed flat, Matrona included. I understand magic is involved but everyone seemed like inhuman cardboard cutouts. I would have liked full fleshed out people.
While the first two consequences of Matrona’s dolls were especially interesting, the plot was confusing overall. There were periods of intense information dropping, especially in the beginning, and then other parts where nothing happened. There are entire sections with Matrona wandering around the village waffling over her love life. Her love interest falls in love with her in just a week. Part of the action was delayed because there were 3 day gaps between opening the next doll. The villain didn’t really do anything other than intimidate Matrona and disappears for entire sections of the book so that Matrona can do something to further the plot.
Then Matrona has a vision in Chapter 16 / 73% in and the book had a sharp decline that lasted through the end. The explanations for the mystery of the dolls and Matrona’s decisions and methods in fighting back were so lackluster. I was so close to the end at that point that I finished so I could see how the author chose to resolve the issues. Again interesting concepts but poor execution.
I seem to be in the minority so far with this opinion so take it with a grain of sea salt. If ye chose to read it, I hope ye like it far better than I. I just know I won’t be readin’ another book by this author.
So lastly . . .
Thank you 47North!
check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
July 17, 2017
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Charlie Holmberg is a relatively new author. I've read her Paper Magician trilogy, and it was highly original and was quite entertaining. The magic systems that she comes up with are Sanderson-esque.
The Fifth Doll is no exception. It's got a really creative and almost scary twist on magic and Russian nesting dolls.
You can read the blurb for what it's about, but basically, the main character stumbles upon a secret that a fellow townsperson is keeping, and is forced to start messing with the magic of some Russian nesting dolls. Over time, more and more is revealed, and Holmberg has done a great job of peeling back the layers of humanity, one doll at a time, to reveal that fifth doll inside.
Overall, a unique and hard to put down take on Russian folklore, magic, and seeing past the outside shells of the people around us. I'd definitely recommend this to people who like interesting magic and folklore and slow-reveal stories.
Charlie Holmberg is a relatively new author. I've read her Paper Magician trilogy, and it was highly original and was quite entertaining. The magic systems that she comes up with are Sanderson-esque.
The Fifth Doll is no exception. It's got a really creative and almost scary twist on magic and Russian nesting dolls.
You can read the blurb for what it's about, but basically, the main character stumbles upon a secret that a fellow townsperson is keeping, and is forced to start messing with the magic of some Russian nesting dolls. Over time, more and more is revealed, and Holmberg has done a great job of peeling back the layers of humanity, one doll at a time, to reveal that fifth doll inside.
Overall, a unique and hard to put down take on Russian folklore, magic, and seeing past the outside shells of the people around us. I'd definitely recommend this to people who like interesting magic and folklore and slow-reveal stories.
August 23, 2018
I loved this!!!
A dark and twisted fairy tale filled with sorcery and nesting dolls!
I feel like this was a very refreshing book, something new and different that I haven't read before.
Every twist and turn kept me guessing as to what could possibly happen next, and I wasn't let down! I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded and wasn't left confused or wondering what was going on.
There were times when I was screaming to not open another doll, and then there were times when I wanted nothing more than to just jump in the book and wrench open every doll on the shelves!!!
The magic wasn't overdone or cheesy. The little bit of romance was perfect and didn't take away from the rest of the story. I really enjoyed the characters and the setting, it felt like Holmberg really knew exactly the image she wanted to place in the mind of her readers.
It was quick paced and a good read, I closed the book feeling content with what I had read and would definitely recommend it to others!!
____________________________________________
What is it about folklore and fairytales that always draws me in and refuses to let me go until the very last page?! This was such a dark and twisted tale filled with sorcery and nesting dolls. I have never read anything like it and I loved every minute of it! This was such a refreshing read, new and different with twists and turns that kept me guessing what could possibly happen next!? I enjoyed how the story unfolded layer at a time, like each layer of the nesting dolls that this tale was about. Folklore always seems to grab my heart on some deep level of story telling and I love when an author incorporates that into their story. It feels like this is how a story is meant to be told. With hidden meanings, and lessons learned the story as a whole takes on its own personal meaning as each person interprets it in their own way, and how special is that when reading a book?!
This story was about a girl named Matrona, who has lived her whole life in a small village and is a loyal and faithful daughter to her parents and their dairy farm. She has always aimed to please them and that is all she needs to be happy. So when they arrange a marriage that will be good for the family, she is happy to oblige under the guise that this is how her life should be, and is meant to be. All until she is sent to visit the local tradesman, Slava. When she arrives at Slava’s unique home, she is suprprised to find it empty with the door ajar, so she enters in search of the other gentlman, hoping that nothing bad happened to him. She did not expect to find a room full of painted nesting dolls, all with the faces of her fellow villagers. Curious, she finds the one of her father and opens it up, unable to help herself. When she arrives back home later though, she starts to notice that her father isn’t acting normal. Something is off and Matrona can’t help but wonder if it has something to do with the strange dolls she found in Slava’s house. Soon she is pulled into a fight to right her wrongs and accept a responsiblity that she isn’t sure she can handle. There is so much more to her little village than she ever knew possible, and she must break from her little perfect routine to save those she loves before its too late.
The world building in this was so unique and perfect with the theme of the nesting dolls. i could see all the little village homes and their bright colors, and fenced fields that contained the neighbors fields for their livestock or crops. Being a small and simple setting it was easy to imagine and follow as we go along with Matrona through her daily chores and the bigger adventure she is led on as the story progresses. There is a hint of magic with the dolls, but other than that magic does not take part in the rest of the story. I like this, because there isn’t some crazy magic system to try and comprehend. We discover with Matrona, what magic the dolls hold and how it effects those who open them.
The romance in it starts out seeming like its going to be stiff and boring, but we quickly find out that even though Matrona will do what her parents wish of her and marry whom they want, she still has a heart that yearns for love, and love might not be with the man her parents chose. Jaska was a wonderful character and their friendship and forbidden feelings for each other kept the butterflies in my stomach churning throughout, hoping that they would somehow find a way to be together even though Matrona had never gone against her parents wishes, and Jaska was the son of the town crazy lady. But just as Matrona discovers that there’s more to this village than meets the eye, Jaska soon learns that maybe his mother’s ramblings are that crazy after all.
The adventure that ensues once things get going, kept me enthralled to the very end. I loved the dark sense of mystery that you discover things as the characters in the book do, leaving you to figure out what’s happening with them. I was on the edge of my seat wishing my eyes to read faster just to find out what happens. I love how everything wraps up neatly in the end with just enough to let your imagination run its course, but with enough solidity to keep you from feeling like there were any loose ends. I have read a few of Holmberg’s other books and really fell in love with the ease in which she writes and this book was no different. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. But until then, you should definitely give The Fifth Doll a read, you wont regret it!
A dark and twisted fairy tale filled with sorcery and nesting dolls!
I feel like this was a very refreshing book, something new and different that I haven't read before.
Every twist and turn kept me guessing as to what could possibly happen next, and I wasn't let down! I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded and wasn't left confused or wondering what was going on.
There were times when I was screaming to not open another doll, and then there were times when I wanted nothing more than to just jump in the book and wrench open every doll on the shelves!!!
The magic wasn't overdone or cheesy. The little bit of romance was perfect and didn't take away from the rest of the story. I really enjoyed the characters and the setting, it felt like Holmberg really knew exactly the image she wanted to place in the mind of her readers.
It was quick paced and a good read, I closed the book feeling content with what I had read and would definitely recommend it to others!!
____________________________________________
What is it about folklore and fairytales that always draws me in and refuses to let me go until the very last page?! This was such a dark and twisted tale filled with sorcery and nesting dolls. I have never read anything like it and I loved every minute of it! This was such a refreshing read, new and different with twists and turns that kept me guessing what could possibly happen next!? I enjoyed how the story unfolded layer at a time, like each layer of the nesting dolls that this tale was about. Folklore always seems to grab my heart on some deep level of story telling and I love when an author incorporates that into their story. It feels like this is how a story is meant to be told. With hidden meanings, and lessons learned the story as a whole takes on its own personal meaning as each person interprets it in their own way, and how special is that when reading a book?!
This story was about a girl named Matrona, who has lived her whole life in a small village and is a loyal and faithful daughter to her parents and their dairy farm. She has always aimed to please them and that is all she needs to be happy. So when they arrange a marriage that will be good for the family, she is happy to oblige under the guise that this is how her life should be, and is meant to be. All until she is sent to visit the local tradesman, Slava. When she arrives at Slava’s unique home, she is suprprised to find it empty with the door ajar, so she enters in search of the other gentlman, hoping that nothing bad happened to him. She did not expect to find a room full of painted nesting dolls, all with the faces of her fellow villagers. Curious, she finds the one of her father and opens it up, unable to help herself. When she arrives back home later though, she starts to notice that her father isn’t acting normal. Something is off and Matrona can’t help but wonder if it has something to do with the strange dolls she found in Slava’s house. Soon she is pulled into a fight to right her wrongs and accept a responsiblity that she isn’t sure she can handle. There is so much more to her little village than she ever knew possible, and she must break from her little perfect routine to save those she loves before its too late.
The world building in this was so unique and perfect with the theme of the nesting dolls. i could see all the little village homes and their bright colors, and fenced fields that contained the neighbors fields for their livestock or crops. Being a small and simple setting it was easy to imagine and follow as we go along with Matrona through her daily chores and the bigger adventure she is led on as the story progresses. There is a hint of magic with the dolls, but other than that magic does not take part in the rest of the story. I like this, because there isn’t some crazy magic system to try and comprehend. We discover with Matrona, what magic the dolls hold and how it effects those who open them.
The romance in it starts out seeming like its going to be stiff and boring, but we quickly find out that even though Matrona will do what her parents wish of her and marry whom they want, she still has a heart that yearns for love, and love might not be with the man her parents chose. Jaska was a wonderful character and their friendship and forbidden feelings for each other kept the butterflies in my stomach churning throughout, hoping that they would somehow find a way to be together even though Matrona had never gone against her parents wishes, and Jaska was the son of the town crazy lady. But just as Matrona discovers that there’s more to this village than meets the eye, Jaska soon learns that maybe his mother’s ramblings are that crazy after all.
The adventure that ensues once things get going, kept me enthralled to the very end. I loved the dark sense of mystery that you discover things as the characters in the book do, leaving you to figure out what’s happening with them. I was on the edge of my seat wishing my eyes to read faster just to find out what happens. I love how everything wraps up neatly in the end with just enough to let your imagination run its course, but with enough solidity to keep you from feeling like there were any loose ends. I have read a few of Holmberg’s other books and really fell in love with the ease in which she writes and this book was no different. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. But until then, you should definitely give The Fifth Doll a read, you wont regret it!
August 10, 2019
This is my first foray into the writing of Charlie N. Holmberg. The Paper Magician is patiently waiting on my overfilled TBR print bookshelf. After reading The Fifth Doll it is definitely moving closer to the top!
Fifth Doll is a solid read. Good characters, interesting unique plot, and a love interest/romance that was just enough for me. The magic in it is clever and yet felt very natural. I think often times when we can't put a finger on why we didn't like a magical system it's because it's illogical or unnatural. Holmberg certainly understands how most people think and keeps his magic inside a realm we can all easily understand and appreciate.
There is a constant tension and step-up of the plot in a way that keeps you turning pages. I was never once bored or annoyed with the general story. Certainly I cheered on the obvious romantic interest, as everyone likely will, and am frustrated when I doesn't play out "perfectly". But this I also liked because it's more like real life. Pieces rarely fall into place in the way you expect them to.
Overall, The Fifth Doll is a solid read. You won't go wrong gifting it to a teen 13 or older (maybe even a bit younger if the child is an advanced reader). It's got some intense moments but they are not inappropriate at all. Just moments that are dark enough to keep a teen reading but nothing too offensive that parents would frown at.
Alternatively if you are like me and an adult that loves teen books I believe that you will at least be moderately pleased with this read. It's not the best book of the year but it's certainly worth a place on my shelf and I have no trouble recommending it.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
Fifth Doll is a solid read. Good characters, interesting unique plot, and a love interest/romance that was just enough for me. The magic in it is clever and yet felt very natural. I think often times when we can't put a finger on why we didn't like a magical system it's because it's illogical or unnatural. Holmberg certainly understands how most people think and keeps his magic inside a realm we can all easily understand and appreciate.
There is a constant tension and step-up of the plot in a way that keeps you turning pages. I was never once bored or annoyed with the general story. Certainly I cheered on the obvious romantic interest, as everyone likely will, and am frustrated when I doesn't play out "perfectly". But this I also liked because it's more like real life. Pieces rarely fall into place in the way you expect them to.
Overall, The Fifth Doll is a solid read. You won't go wrong gifting it to a teen 13 or older (maybe even a bit younger if the child is an advanced reader). It's got some intense moments but they are not inappropriate at all. Just moments that are dark enough to keep a teen reading but nothing too offensive that parents would frown at.
Alternatively if you are like me and an adult that loves teen books I believe that you will at least be moderately pleased with this read. It's not the best book of the year but it's certainly worth a place on my shelf and I have no trouble recommending it.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
June 30, 2018
OVERALL AVERAGE RATING: 3.3/5
World-building: 3/5
The world-building in general was pretty weak. The story was set in a remote village that’s later revealed to be in Russia (though this is really a no-brainer since the cover has a Russian nesting doll). What confused me the most was the magic in the book. It didn’t feel very well-thought out, and I often found myself wondering, “Well why didn’t she do this?” or “Couldn’t he have done it this way?” There were definitely holes in the way the magic worked in this book, and things that were left a little unexplained.
Characters: 3/5
I wasn’t particularly impressed or moved by the characters in this book, and many of them were so-so in terms of depth and complexity. Matrona, the protagonist, was annoying. Much like a paper doll, she just felt one dimensional and lacked a more compelling personality. Even when she started to become more assertive, all I saw was her whining and griping. But maybe that’s just me. Slava, however, was a pretty interesting character. There might have been potential to flesh out more of his backstory, but unfortunately, we only get a one chapter glimpse into why he did what he did.
Plot: 3.5/5
The story was compelling in some aspects, and then weak in others. I definitely liked the idea that each layer of the nesting doll contained a set of secrets or revelations. If anything, the revelation of those secrets was what kept me reading the book. Where the story started to fall apart for me was towards the end. I felt as though the whole backstory behind the dolls wasn’t very well fleshed out. It seemed like the author was trying to situate it in the historical context of the time, but the historical context felt more like an afterthought. The author could’ve have definitely taken the time to develop that part of the story more. I also did not care for the little love story in the book. That was about as dry and dull as stale bread if I’m being honest.
Writing style: 3/5
The writing style was okay, though not particularly remarkable. The author was descriptive enough, but at times it seemed like she was overdoing it a little with the metaphors.
Entertainment: 4/5
Despite some of the weaknesses and holes in the story, I thought that the book as a whole was a good read. The premise of the story was definitely interesting. I know Holmberg’s Paper Magician series is relatively popular, but right now, I don’t think I’m particularly compelled to read her other books.
World-building: 3/5
The world-building in general was pretty weak. The story was set in a remote village that’s later revealed to be in Russia (though this is really a no-brainer since the cover has a Russian nesting doll). What confused me the most was the magic in the book. It didn’t feel very well-thought out, and I often found myself wondering, “Well why didn’t she do this?” or “Couldn’t he have done it this way?” There were definitely holes in the way the magic worked in this book, and things that were left a little unexplained.
Characters: 3/5
I wasn’t particularly impressed or moved by the characters in this book, and many of them were so-so in terms of depth and complexity. Matrona, the protagonist, was annoying. Much like a paper doll, she just felt one dimensional and lacked a more compelling personality. Even when she started to become more assertive, all I saw was her whining and griping. But maybe that’s just me. Slava, however, was a pretty interesting character. There might have been potential to flesh out more of his backstory, but unfortunately, we only get a one chapter glimpse into why he did what he did.
Plot: 3.5/5
The story was compelling in some aspects, and then weak in others. I definitely liked the idea that each layer of the nesting doll contained a set of secrets or revelations. If anything, the revelation of those secrets was what kept me reading the book. Where the story started to fall apart for me was towards the end. I felt as though the whole backstory behind the dolls wasn’t very well fleshed out. It seemed like the author was trying to situate it in the historical context of the time, but the historical context felt more like an afterthought. The author could’ve have definitely taken the time to develop that part of the story more. I also did not care for the little love story in the book. That was about as dry and dull as stale bread if I’m being honest.
Writing style: 3/5
The writing style was okay, though not particularly remarkable. The author was descriptive enough, but at times it seemed like she was overdoing it a little with the metaphors.
Entertainment: 4/5
Despite some of the weaknesses and holes in the story, I thought that the book as a whole was a good read. The premise of the story was definitely interesting. I know Holmberg’s Paper Magician series is relatively popular, but right now, I don’t think I’m particularly compelled to read her other books.
June 6, 2017
I was SO elated to win this ARC (my first ever!) of Charlie N. Holmberg's new book, and even more so once I started to read it. Creepy in the absolute best ways, this story is immediately entrancing and mysterious. I just LOVE this Russian dimension she's created with so many twists and turns and characters that were easy to root for and gasp over.
I find her writing so incredibly easy to disappear into. She utilizes wonderful imagery and the pace is perfect, sweeping you right up along with it.
Example:
"Matrona imagined her flush was made of thousands of biting ants, and the soft breeze blew them off her skin as she walked, carrying them back into the wood."
Amazing. As always her book features a creative brand of magic that is baffling but fascinating and accessible. There are bits of creeping horror mixed with fantasy (but I wouldn't say it's actually flat out scary, for those wondering). I just really enjoyed this book and couldn't stop thinking about it as I read through it, and still can't now that I'm done. As I experienced with another book of hers, Followed by Frost, as soon as I closed the last page I was all but devastated there wasn't more story to read.
I cannot wait to share this read with everyone I know once it releases July 25!!
I find her writing so incredibly easy to disappear into. She utilizes wonderful imagery and the pace is perfect, sweeping you right up along with it.
Example:
"Matrona imagined her flush was made of thousands of biting ants, and the soft breeze blew them off her skin as she walked, carrying them back into the wood."
Amazing. As always her book features a creative brand of magic that is baffling but fascinating and accessible. There are bits of creeping horror mixed with fantasy (but I wouldn't say it's actually flat out scary, for those wondering). I just really enjoyed this book and couldn't stop thinking about it as I read through it, and still can't now that I'm done. As I experienced with another book of hers, Followed by Frost, as soon as I closed the last page I was all but devastated there wasn't more story to read.
I cannot wait to share this read with everyone I know once it releases July 25!!
May 22, 2017
Loved this book. Easily the best book I've read all year (which is saying a lot since it's my 26th in 2017).
The writing style is beautiful and flawless. The world comes alive with graceful imagery. The characters are complex and dynamic. The structure/pacing of the novel is steady and building: either the mystery of the world, the magic of the dolls, the romantic 'complications' of the protagonist (sorry, no spoilers!), or the timeline itself keep the book fascinating and engrossing throughout. I couldn't put it down, but honestly, I didn't really try to. I let myself get swept away by the narrative, and I have a feeling I'm going to be thinking about this book for a long time yet to come.
I was given an advance copy of this book, and I promise, that is NOT why I'm rating it so highly. 100% truth: It's probably my new favorite book by Charlie N. Holmberg (and I really, really love The Paper Magician). I wasn't a huge fan of Magic Bitter, Magic Sweet, so don't think I'm just giving out free 5 Star ratings either. This is my second 5-star read in 2017, out of 26 books, and I wholeheartedly mean it.
I was BLOWN AWAY by how wonderfully this book is written and highlighted line after line of Holmberg's beautiful prose. Her descriptions are gorgeous: she describes emotions, physical reactions (hearts racing/skin tingling/etc), and scenery in new and unique ways throughout the book. I just realized my Kindle erased ALL of my notes and highlights (and am now crying), so here are only a few hasty examples of what I mean:
"Matrona imagined her flush was made of thousands of biting ants, and the soft breeze blew them off her skin as she walked, carrying them back into the wood."
"He was still as an oak trunk, silent as a candle."
"Matrona's heart retreated until it hit her spine, and she quivered with its every beat."
"The sky began to tint pink as the sun crawled toward its wooded bed."
"Her entire body became a heartbeat."
"Jaska straightened, though his whole person seemed to wilt."
The writing style is beautiful and flawless. The world comes alive with graceful imagery. The characters are complex and dynamic. The structure/pacing of the novel is steady and building: either the mystery of the world, the magic of the dolls, the romantic 'complications' of the protagonist (sorry, no spoilers!), or the timeline itself keep the book fascinating and engrossing throughout. I couldn't put it down, but honestly, I didn't really try to. I let myself get swept away by the narrative, and I have a feeling I'm going to be thinking about this book for a long time yet to come.
I was given an advance copy of this book, and I promise, that is NOT why I'm rating it so highly. 100% truth: It's probably my new favorite book by Charlie N. Holmberg (and I really, really love The Paper Magician). I wasn't a huge fan of Magic Bitter, Magic Sweet, so don't think I'm just giving out free 5 Star ratings either. This is my second 5-star read in 2017, out of 26 books, and I wholeheartedly mean it.
I was BLOWN AWAY by how wonderfully this book is written and highlighted line after line of Holmberg's beautiful prose. Her descriptions are gorgeous: she describes emotions, physical reactions (hearts racing/skin tingling/etc), and scenery in new and unique ways throughout the book. I just realized my Kindle erased ALL of my notes and highlights (and am now crying), so here are only a few hasty examples of what I mean:
"Matrona imagined her flush was made of thousands of biting ants, and the soft breeze blew them off her skin as she walked, carrying them back into the wood."
"He was still as an oak trunk, silent as a candle."
"Matrona's heart retreated until it hit her spine, and she quivered with its every beat."
"The sky began to tint pink as the sun crawled toward its wooded bed."
"Her entire body became a heartbeat."
"Jaska straightened, though his whole person seemed to wilt."
May 22, 2017
The Fifth Doll is another creative and excellent book by Charlie Holmberg. We move through the story in Matrona's point of view as she discovers some strange things going on in her small village. I enjoyed that the reader didn't know any answers until Matrona figured them out. I also loved the unique world building that was centered on a Russian subculture. The Fifth Doll is hard to put down once you start. A fun read!
August 23, 2018
What is it about folklore and fairytales that always draws me in and refuses to let me go until the very last page?! This was such a dark and twisted tale filled with sorcery and nesting dolls. I have never read anything like it and I loved every minute of it! This was such a refreshing read, new and different with twists and turns that kept me guessing what could possibly happen next!? I enjoyed how the story unfolded layer at a time, like each layer of the nesting dolls that this tale was about. Folklore always seems to grab my heart on some deep level of story telling and I love when an author incorporates that into their story. It feels like this is how a story is meant to be told. With hidden meanings, and lessons learned the story as a whole takes on its own personal meaning as each person interprets it in their own way, and how special is that when reading a book?!
This story was about a girl named Matrona, who has lived her whole life in a small village and is a loyal and faithful daughter to her parents and their dairy farm. She has always aimed to please them and that is all she needs to be happy. So when they arrange a marriage that will be good for the family, she is happy to oblige under the guise that this is how her life should be, and is meant to be. All until she is sent to visit the local tradesman, Slava. When she arrives at Slava’s unique home, she is suprprised to find it empty with the door ajar, so she enters in search of the other gentlman, hoping that nothing bad happened to him. She did not expect to find a room full of painted nesting dolls, all with the faces of her fellow villagers. Curious, she finds the one of her father and opens it up, unable to help herself. When she arrives back home later though, she starts to notice that her father isn’t acting normal. Something is off and Matrona can’t help but wonder if it has something to do with the strange dolls she found in Slava’s house. Soon she is pulled into a fight to right her wrongs and accept a responsiblity that she isn’t sure she can handle. There is so much more to her little village than she ever knew possible, and she must break from her little perfect routine to save those she loves before its too late.
The world building in this was so unique and perfect with the theme of the nesting dolls. i could see all the little village homes and their bright colors, and fenced fields that contained the neighbors fields for their livestock or crops. Being a small and simple setting it was easy to imagine and follow as we go along with Matrona through her daily chores and the bigger adventure she is led on as the story progresses. There is a hint of magic with the dolls, but other than that magic does not take part in the rest of the story. I like this, because there isn’t some crazy magic system to try and comprehend. We discover with Matrona, what magic the dolls hold and how it effects those who open them.
The romance in it starts out seeming like its going to be stiff and boring, but we quickly find out that even though Matrona will do what her parents wish of her and marry whom they want, she still has a heart that yearns for love, and love might not be with the man her parents chose. Jaska was a wonderful character and their friendship and forbidden feelings for each other kept the butterflies in my stomach churning throughout, hoping that they would somehow find a way to be together even though Matrona had never gone against her parents wishes, and Jaska was the son of the town crazy lady. But just as Matrona discovers that there’s more to this village than meets the eye, Jaska soon learns that maybe his mother’s ramblings are that crazy after all.
The adventure that ensues once things get going, kept me enthralled to the very end. I loved the dark sense of mystery that you discover things as the characters in the book do, leaving you to figure out what’s happening with them. I was on the edge of my seat wishing my eyes to read faster just to find out what happens. I love how everything wraps up neatly in the end with just enough to let your imagination run its course, but with enough solidity to keep you from feeling like there were any loose ends. I have read a few of Holmberg’s other books and really fell in love with the ease in which she writes and this book was no different. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. But until then, you should definitely give The Fifth Doll a read, you wont regret it!
This story was about a girl named Matrona, who has lived her whole life in a small village and is a loyal and faithful daughter to her parents and their dairy farm. She has always aimed to please them and that is all she needs to be happy. So when they arrange a marriage that will be good for the family, she is happy to oblige under the guise that this is how her life should be, and is meant to be. All until she is sent to visit the local tradesman, Slava. When she arrives at Slava’s unique home, she is suprprised to find it empty with the door ajar, so she enters in search of the other gentlman, hoping that nothing bad happened to him. She did not expect to find a room full of painted nesting dolls, all with the faces of her fellow villagers. Curious, she finds the one of her father and opens it up, unable to help herself. When she arrives back home later though, she starts to notice that her father isn’t acting normal. Something is off and Matrona can’t help but wonder if it has something to do with the strange dolls she found in Slava’s house. Soon she is pulled into a fight to right her wrongs and accept a responsiblity that she isn’t sure she can handle. There is so much more to her little village than she ever knew possible, and she must break from her little perfect routine to save those she loves before its too late.
The world building in this was so unique and perfect with the theme of the nesting dolls. i could see all the little village homes and their bright colors, and fenced fields that contained the neighbors fields for their livestock or crops. Being a small and simple setting it was easy to imagine and follow as we go along with Matrona through her daily chores and the bigger adventure she is led on as the story progresses. There is a hint of magic with the dolls, but other than that magic does not take part in the rest of the story. I like this, because there isn’t some crazy magic system to try and comprehend. We discover with Matrona, what magic the dolls hold and how it effects those who open them.
The romance in it starts out seeming like its going to be stiff and boring, but we quickly find out that even though Matrona will do what her parents wish of her and marry whom they want, she still has a heart that yearns for love, and love might not be with the man her parents chose. Jaska was a wonderful character and their friendship and forbidden feelings for each other kept the butterflies in my stomach churning throughout, hoping that they would somehow find a way to be together even though Matrona had never gone against her parents wishes, and Jaska was the son of the town crazy lady. But just as Matrona discovers that there’s more to this village than meets the eye, Jaska soon learns that maybe his mother’s ramblings are that crazy after all.
The adventure that ensues once things get going, kept me enthralled to the very end. I loved the dark sense of mystery that you discover things as the characters in the book do, leaving you to figure out what’s happening with them. I was on the edge of my seat wishing my eyes to read faster just to find out what happens. I love how everything wraps up neatly in the end with just enough to let your imagination run its course, but with enough solidity to keep you from feeling like there were any loose ends. I have read a few of Holmberg’s other books and really fell in love with the ease in which she writes and this book was no different. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. But until then, you should definitely give The Fifth Doll a read, you wont regret it!
September 2, 2017
I'm very partial to Charlie's books. I had to fight my oldest daughter to read my copy of Fifth Doll (she won) but I did finally get my turn and really enjoyed it. In fact, I may have liked it better than MAGIC BITTER or FOLLOWED BY FROST. The main character, Matrona, was instantly likeable. When she learns that the village tradesman has all these matryoshka dolls based on the villagers, she begins to discern that magic is involved when hers is opened and suddenly everyone knows her deepest secrets. The magic system in this book was very unique and creative and I couldn't help but get sucked in. The setting is old-time Russia and Charlie does a convincing job of carrying off he POV. It felt a little like M Night Shyamalan's THE VILLAGE where I kept trying to figure out the mystery before the reveal. Anyway, loved the book and stayed up very late in order to finish it. Well done, Charlie!
June 4, 2017
The Fifth Doll is another excellent book by Charlie N. Holmberg. This was an intriguing world that she created and I loved how the story enfolds. Matrona is such a great character. Her curiosity leads to trouble at first, but I loved her determination to not accept a certain fate. There were so many things that had me guessing and I had a hard time putting the book down. Charlie does a great job of revealing the awesome twists and turns that kept the story moving perfectly. There were very cool surprises I was not expecting. Very well done!
I received an ARC from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
I received an ARC from the author. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
November 3, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
I have a feeling this book review is going to end up on the short, inchorent side.
For one, I'm tired. Only because I've been up and at 'em since 7:00am with work, then domesticky stuff, then school junk.
For two, I'm stopping mid-note taking so I can write this up for posting in the AM. So I'm in a bit of a time crunch.
For three, I really don't have a ton to say about the book.
For four, did I mention I'm tired? Yeah, that.
Here's the thing: I've read almost all of Ms. Holmberg's stuff. It's really kind of weird. I never end up loving her works, but, at the same time, she creates some of the most incredible worlds. Her Paper Magicians series, the idea of origami as magic, it was just such a whimsical and breathtaking take on a magic system. I loved it. The magic system that is. The books...eh, well that's still kind of up in the air. Maybe one day when I read book 3 I'll know how I feel about the whole thing. And her stories always have an underlying darkness, which I kind of love. Followed by Frost, which is definitely my favorite, made me want to cry at the pain and the desolation surrounding Smitha's cursed existence. I can still feel the relentless, biting cold that permeated everything around her. It was exhausting and miserable and kind of hard for me to read.
The Fifth Doll wasn't quite like either of those (though it is similar to her Magic Bitter, Magic Sweet). It's really more of a fairy tale. Matrona is kind of like the village spinster. She's in her late 20s and not yet married. All that's about to change when she receives a marriage proposal from the village butcher. Finally! Her dream of becoming a wife is about to become a reality. It's all she's ever wanted, to be married, to have a home where she is loved and cherished.
But her plans, her dreams, her life are all about to become upended by the simple act of finding a paintbrush. Matrona, always one to do the right thing, knows that the paintbrush must belong to the village tradesman, Slava. Entering his home, with the intention of returning it, she discovers a secret: Slava has a collection of dolls that bear an uncanny resemblance to each person in the village. Matrona, in her curiosity, unwittingly alters one of the dolls, and that one alteration changes everything.
Somehow the dolls, the village, and Slava are all tied together. Slava, discovering Matrona's trespass, wants her to become his apprentice, but to do so, she must first open her 5 dolls, one every 3 days. As the secrets are revealed, Slava and his past become more and more menacing and Matrona becomes more and more desperate for answers. Matrona doesn't know who she can turn to with such weighty knowledge, but she ends up putting her trust is Jaska, a much younger butcher who she shamefully has feelings for. Together, they begin to peel back to layers of the Slava's secrets, and ultimately begin to reveal their true selves...
Once again, Ms. Holmberg has come up with this incredibly unique premise. The idea of lives being tied to these Russian nesting dolls was really, really interesting. But for some reason, the story did not live up to its potential. Slava, who is our "bad guy" in this story, is not really present enough to be a convincing villain. In my opinion, his biggest villainy was his unnecessary secret keeping, even after taking Matrona on as an apprentice. That is such a peeve of mine. Matrona also mildly annoyed me. If I were her, I'd have been dying to learn Slava's secrets, but instead she fought him at every turn. And by fought, I meant she ran and hid just FYI. She wasn't a bad main character, I just think she was a little boring. In fact, I think that was the problem: it was all just a little bit boring. And the ending was just kind of ho-hum. It was fitting, I think. It was the optimal outcome, I think. But I wasn't really rooting for it one way or the other, if that makes sense.
However, this is a fairly short book and there are enough interesting parts to make it worth finishing. I listened to the audio book narrated by Angela Dawe, who I really like, so that also helped. I'd say, if you like books that have a fairy-tale-esque feel and are looking for a short, filler book then go ahead and give this a try. It's not life changing, it's not incredible, but it works well enough for what it is.
I have a feeling this book review is going to end up on the short, inchorent side.
For one, I'm tired. Only because I've been up and at 'em since 7:00am with work, then domesticky stuff, then school junk.
For two, I'm stopping mid-note taking so I can write this up for posting in the AM. So I'm in a bit of a time crunch.
For three, I really don't have a ton to say about the book.
For four, did I mention I'm tired? Yeah, that.
Here's the thing: I've read almost all of Ms. Holmberg's stuff. It's really kind of weird. I never end up loving her works, but, at the same time, she creates some of the most incredible worlds. Her Paper Magicians series, the idea of origami as magic, it was just such a whimsical and breathtaking take on a magic system. I loved it. The magic system that is. The books...eh, well that's still kind of up in the air. Maybe one day when I read book 3 I'll know how I feel about the whole thing. And her stories always have an underlying darkness, which I kind of love. Followed by Frost, which is definitely my favorite, made me want to cry at the pain and the desolation surrounding Smitha's cursed existence. I can still feel the relentless, biting cold that permeated everything around her. It was exhausting and miserable and kind of hard for me to read.
The Fifth Doll wasn't quite like either of those (though it is similar to her Magic Bitter, Magic Sweet). It's really more of a fairy tale. Matrona is kind of like the village spinster. She's in her late 20s and not yet married. All that's about to change when she receives a marriage proposal from the village butcher. Finally! Her dream of becoming a wife is about to become a reality. It's all she's ever wanted, to be married, to have a home where she is loved and cherished.
But her plans, her dreams, her life are all about to become upended by the simple act of finding a paintbrush. Matrona, always one to do the right thing, knows that the paintbrush must belong to the village tradesman, Slava. Entering his home, with the intention of returning it, she discovers a secret: Slava has a collection of dolls that bear an uncanny resemblance to each person in the village. Matrona, in her curiosity, unwittingly alters one of the dolls, and that one alteration changes everything.
Somehow the dolls, the village, and Slava are all tied together. Slava, discovering Matrona's trespass, wants her to become his apprentice, but to do so, she must first open her 5 dolls, one every 3 days. As the secrets are revealed, Slava and his past become more and more menacing and Matrona becomes more and more desperate for answers. Matrona doesn't know who she can turn to with such weighty knowledge, but she ends up putting her trust is Jaska, a much younger butcher who she shamefully has feelings for. Together, they begin to peel back to layers of the Slava's secrets, and ultimately begin to reveal their true selves...
Once again, Ms. Holmberg has come up with this incredibly unique premise. The idea of lives being tied to these Russian nesting dolls was really, really interesting. But for some reason, the story did not live up to its potential. Slava, who is our "bad guy" in this story, is not really present enough to be a convincing villain. In my opinion, his biggest villainy was his unnecessary secret keeping, even after taking Matrona on as an apprentice. That is such a peeve of mine. Matrona also mildly annoyed me. If I were her, I'd have been dying to learn Slava's secrets, but instead she fought him at every turn. And by fought, I meant she ran and hid just FYI. She wasn't a bad main character, I just think she was a little boring. In fact, I think that was the problem: it was all just a little bit boring. And the ending was just kind of ho-hum. It was fitting, I think. It was the optimal outcome, I think. But I wasn't really rooting for it one way or the other, if that makes sense.
However, this is a fairly short book and there are enough interesting parts to make it worth finishing. I listened to the audio book narrated by Angela Dawe, who I really like, so that also helped. I'd say, if you like books that have a fairy-tale-esque feel and are looking for a short, filler book then go ahead and give this a try. It's not life changing, it's not incredible, but it works well enough for what it is.
July 6, 2020
This is such an unusual book and with an ending I really didn't see coming. When Matrona starts to open up her dolls strange things start happening. I won't spoil all but one of them includes all your past negative thoughts coming back at you in one giant wave of information. As someone with anxiety and depression trying to picture that happening was horrible. The first couple of reveals as she opens the dolls really made me think.
I would have liked more details on Slava's backstory. When it finally comes towards the end it felt a bit rushed and not enough detail. I personally needed a little bit more to justify his actions.
Other than that it builds beautifully, is very descriptive and a joy to read
I would have liked more details on Slava's backstory. When it finally comes towards the end it felt a bit rushed and not enough detail. I personally needed a little bit more to justify his actions.
Other than that it builds beautifully, is very descriptive and a joy to read
July 10, 2017
Charlie N. Holmberg has a way of crafting magical worlds that I've never thought of before. While there may be some familiar elements, she bends them to her will and creates people and places and systems that weave together into a story that has me reading until the last page.
The Fifth Doll is the story of a woman, Matrona, who is living a relatively content life. She is not as respected as she'd like, being an unmarried woman at 26, but that will change with her marriage to the butcher. After a fateful decision, however, she finds herself stumbling upon a secret that encompasses her entire village and spans the past twenty years. Now, she has to work alongside Slava, the mastermind behind this magical secret, and in doing so decide whether she will comply with his wish, to become his protege, or to work out the magic and free her people.
While reading Matrona's journey from an unsuspecting villager to the person that pulls back the curtain, I never thought for sure that I knew where things were going. There were hints as to what Slava had done, like when the villagers didn't know what a lock was or what the word snow meant. There were things that were unexplained before the big revelation that I never expected to be answered, only to get to the end and realize that it was interwoven in Slava's machinations from the beginning, though not by his intentional design. Simply put, there was just so much going on in The Fifth Doll that you're swept away, just like Matrona, and while you might pick up on some of the minute details that hint at the future she's hurtling toward, you might also be like her and miss them while trying to work out the bigger picture.
There is an interesting concept that Matrona and Slava debate toward the end of the novel that I found interesting.
The revelations and the consequences of not just Matrona's actions but those of Slava and other characters in this story made for a gripping story that I had to read nearly straight through. Holmberg's writing made a for a pleasant reading experience and her research into Russian culture included clothing and building details that I did not recognize from books I've read in the past. Her creation of this atmosphere got me right into the story and did not let me go until the end, where I am left both satisfied and questioning the characters. No one is perfect in this book, whatever they think about themselves, and maybe that was the point. Making the best decisions you can while not giving into self-doubt and criticism and outside forces.
I'm looking forward to her next book, because there is always the possibility that the story started here as not ended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Fifth Doll is the story of a woman, Matrona, who is living a relatively content life. She is not as respected as she'd like, being an unmarried woman at 26, but that will change with her marriage to the butcher. After a fateful decision, however, she finds herself stumbling upon a secret that encompasses her entire village and spans the past twenty years. Now, she has to work alongside Slava, the mastermind behind this magical secret, and in doing so decide whether she will comply with his wish, to become his protege, or to work out the magic and free her people.
While reading Matrona's journey from an unsuspecting villager to the person that pulls back the curtain, I never thought for sure that I knew where things were going. There were hints as to what Slava had done, like when the villagers didn't know what a lock was or what the word snow meant. There were things that were unexplained before the big revelation that I never expected to be answered, only to get to the end and realize that it was interwoven in Slava's machinations from the beginning, though not by his intentional design. Simply put, there was just so much going on in The Fifth Doll that you're swept away, just like Matrona, and while you might pick up on some of the minute details that hint at the future she's hurtling toward, you might also be like her and miss them while trying to work out the bigger picture.
There is an interesting concept that Matrona and Slava debate toward the end of the novel that I found interesting.
The revelations and the consequences of not just Matrona's actions but those of Slava and other characters in this story made for a gripping story that I had to read nearly straight through. Holmberg's writing made a for a pleasant reading experience and her research into Russian culture included clothing and building details that I did not recognize from books I've read in the past. Her creation of this atmosphere got me right into the story and did not let me go until the end, where I am left both satisfied and questioning the characters. No one is perfect in this book, whatever they think about themselves, and maybe that was the point. Making the best decisions you can while not giving into self-doubt and criticism and outside forces.
I'm looking forward to her next book, because there is always the possibility that the story started here as not ended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2017
The Fifth Doll reads like a classic fairytale, is wildly imaginative, and so much fun. This story is so unique and creative. I've never read anything like it before, and I absolutely devoured it.
The magic system in this story is so original and just so Charlie Holmberg. If you've read her other novels, you will totally understand what I mean when I say that Charlie's books, characters, and the magic systems within them are unlike anyone else's. Charlie has a truly individual writing style, and I always find her books so fun and refreshing. What I loved about this magic system was that it is very specific. It isn't a no-holds-bar type of system where magic swoops in to easily resolve the conflicts in the story. Matrona has to really fight to overcome the obstacles she faces.
And speaking of Matrona, she was an incredibly likable character, who was so easy to root for throughout the story. There is an inner-goodness and innocence about her, but there is definitely some fierceness to her too.
I absolutely loved the little village this book is set in. It's so charming on the surface but has layers of darkness and mystery underneath that were both captivating and sometimes a bit creepy. Perfect setting for this tale.
While Matrona's discovery of, and fight against, the dark magic looming over her little village is the main focus of this story, there is also a super sweet romance that I enjoyed so much.
The Fifth Doll is a really fun read that is sure to entertain readers of all ages.
Thanks so much to Amazon Publishing for granting me a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The magic system in this story is so original and just so Charlie Holmberg. If you've read her other novels, you will totally understand what I mean when I say that Charlie's books, characters, and the magic systems within them are unlike anyone else's. Charlie has a truly individual writing style, and I always find her books so fun and refreshing. What I loved about this magic system was that it is very specific. It isn't a no-holds-bar type of system where magic swoops in to easily resolve the conflicts in the story. Matrona has to really fight to overcome the obstacles she faces.
And speaking of Matrona, she was an incredibly likable character, who was so easy to root for throughout the story. There is an inner-goodness and innocence about her, but there is definitely some fierceness to her too.
I absolutely loved the little village this book is set in. It's so charming on the surface but has layers of darkness and mystery underneath that were both captivating and sometimes a bit creepy. Perfect setting for this tale.
While Matrona's discovery of, and fight against, the dark magic looming over her little village is the main focus of this story, there is also a super sweet romance that I enjoyed so much.
The Fifth Doll is a really fun read that is sure to entertain readers of all ages.
Thanks so much to Amazon Publishing for granting me a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2017
Matrona Vitsin (26, daughter), & Roksana Zotov (Matrona’s BFF, nursery school teacher) were admiring Matrona’s mother’s chest.
In there was a hand-made doll that were memories of Esfir (6, daughter, Matrona’s sister) who had simply vanished from her cradle.
What did Slava Barinov (mysticist, tradesman) ask Matrona to do with the next doll she found in the chest?
1 of these days Matrona would make her parents happy & marry Feodor Popov (butcher).
Olia kept a watchful over Roksana who would have the baby at any time.
Will Matrona open brown Fukuruma 5th. doll?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; instaFreebie; 47North; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
In there was a hand-made doll that were memories of Esfir (6, daughter, Matrona’s sister) who had simply vanished from her cradle.
What did Slava Barinov (mysticist, tradesman) ask Matrona to do with the next doll she found in the chest?
1 of these days Matrona would make her parents happy & marry Feodor Popov (butcher).
Olia kept a watchful over Roksana who would have the baby at any time.
Will Matrona open brown Fukuruma 5th. doll?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great paranormal movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; instaFreebie; 47North; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 3, 2018
4.5⭐️
The fifth doll... you are the fifth and you must make the dolls and continue my job or people will get hurt. The dolls must be created. Bad thing happen if they are not made but if they are opened things could get even worse.
Werid and beautiful. So intricate and interesting and unlike anything ive read in a long time.
Highly recommend!
The fifth doll... you are the fifth and you must make the dolls and continue my job or people will get hurt. The dolls must be created. Bad thing happen if they are not made but if they are opened things could get even worse.
Werid and beautiful. So intricate and interesting and unlike anything ive read in a long time.
Highly recommend!
October 30, 2017
Life is the purest form of magic.
The Fifth Doll was a cute, original reading that let me taste Charlie N. Holmberg's fervent fantasy.
The story had just that delightfully creepy touch that kept me hooked till the end. As doll after doll, layer after layer, the mystery unfolded, I became even more eager to know, to fully understand how deep and intricate were the secrets hidden within and beyond the dolls. I simply could not stop reading, that’s it.
However.
Despite I overall enjoyed this book, I had the disturbing feeling that something was missing:
♦ Matrona was a pretty good main character, but she lacked some more development, and I could never really connect with her.
♦ The other characters (but Jaska) felt quite dull, one-dimensional.
♦ I would have liked ‘more’ even from Slava,
♦ The plot got a little (too) messy towards the end, and the last chapters and the conclusion were too rushed, leaving me a bit confused at times and with too many unanswered questions.
All in all, a gripping, enjoyable reading, with – sadly – (one too) many little flaws.
~I received this book via NetGalley in an exchange for my honest review~
January 28, 2019
This was an okay story to listen to. It was an intriguing idea for a plot, and I was very interested at first. However, I failed to connect with the main character, who seemed to act much younger than she was, and found myself losing interest as the story progressed. I'm hit and miss with young adult fiction, so this may appeal more to those who love YA fantasy stories.
I borrowed this in audiobook format through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
I borrowed this in audiobook format through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
November 4, 2024
4.5⭐️ Sometimes I feel like with fantasy we get a lot of repeat storylines...but the Fifth Doll was so unique! I was super into the story, mystery, and magic. There were even some creepy elements that made it hard to put it down. The audio was done super well! I love Charlie’s writing and I’m glad I decided to pick this one up!
Read
April 13, 2018Sometimes there are authors who you know are really good writers and yet, for whatever reason, you don't connect to their writing. This is one of those books for me and the second or third time I've bounced off of one of Holmberg's books.
I read it. I enjoyed it, but I just didn't connect to either the plot or the characters. It's totally a personal issue, and not indicative of the book being in any way bad, but it just didn't connect for me.
I read it. I enjoyed it, but I just didn't connect to either the plot or the characters. It's totally a personal issue, and not indicative of the book being in any way bad, but it just didn't connect for me.
February 15, 2021
Nice different fantasy read. It reminded me a lot of an old Russian Folktale or fable. Recommended
August 27, 2022
This is my first Charlie Holmberg novel, and it was fantastic. I loved everything about this novel, especially its creepy premise. It’s so singular, and quite well done..! I’m so glad to find that this novel lived up to its blurb, at least in my eyes. I powered my way through this novel in one day, and really enjoyed the ride. I never knew what was going to happen next, and I mean that in the best way possible. I’m also happy that I own this novel, so I can lend it to friends, or listen to it again.
Angela Dawe Is the fabulous narrator for the audiobook version of this novel. Her pronunciation of Russian words, and her Russian accent were pretty damn believable, and not once was I pulled out of my head because of something jarring, while listening to this audiobook. I’ve also enjoyed Ms. Dawe’s narration work before (‘The Lost Village’ By Alexandra Fleming), and I’m so happy to have run across another of her works once more. And since Audible has 26 pages of Ms. Dawe’s works listed alone, it’s probably going to happen again, soon. And I’ll be so happy to hear her once again. Keep on rockin’, Dawe…!
This novel is highly recommended by me, to all of you. Please read or listen to it soon.
4 stars
Angela Dawe Is the fabulous narrator for the audiobook version of this novel. Her pronunciation of Russian words, and her Russian accent were pretty damn believable, and not once was I pulled out of my head because of something jarring, while listening to this audiobook. I’ve also enjoyed Ms. Dawe’s narration work before (‘The Lost Village’ By Alexandra Fleming), and I’m so happy to have run across another of her works once more. And since Audible has 26 pages of Ms. Dawe’s works listed alone, it’s probably going to happen again, soon. And I’ll be so happy to hear her once again. Keep on rockin’, Dawe…!
This novel is highly recommended by me, to all of you. Please read or listen to it soon.
4 stars
January 28, 2023
So I've read one other book by this author and it was goooood. Decided to try another and hope it wasn't a one off, and it wasn't, this was goooooooooooood!
Her imagination is on fire, I think I've got me a new favourite author, I will be devouring everything she has ever written from this moment on!
Her imagination is on fire, I think I've got me a new favourite author, I will be devouring everything she has ever written from this moment on!
July 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love Russian dolls. There's something quite soothing about opening and arranging rows of little wooden figures. I also really like stories with a touch of Russian history, so when I read the blurb for this book, I was really excited to read it.
Matrona finds a room in her neighbour's house filled with Russian dolls that all bare a resemblance to the people in her village. Unable to resist, she touches one that resembles her father. However, when her father starts acting strangely she realises there's more to the dolls than first meets the eye. When she is later forced to open and confront what's inside her own doll, she discovers secrets that may have been left alone.
I ended up enjoying about 2/3 of this book, but about 70% in it all started to fall apart and I got really, really confused. I loved the beginning - it was atmospheric with a current of underlying tension. Everything is too perfect, and the villagers are very compliant. It creates a good build up of uneasiness, and it's alluded to very early on that something isn't right in this idyllic village when someone comments 'What is snow?', and I liked this bit of foreshadowing. The concept itself, that the villagers are all represented within Russian dolls was very unique. I loved the slow unravelling of the secrets that came with each doll opening, and was eager to read on to find out what the elusive 'fifth doll' would reveal. It felt like, with each layer, we were peeling away the layers of the characters.
I liked the relationship between Matrona and Jaska. In particular, the tension created after the reveal from the first doll opening was great. That meeting on the path was amazing, and the writing did a great job of creating such awkwardness between the two. If anything though, I though the relationship between the two could have been developed even further, and I was disappointed it took a backseat.
It was when Matrona went through that back door at Slava's that things went a bit downhill for me. The big reveal behind the secret of the 'fifth doll' felt a bit flat after the sensational reveals of the previous dolls, and also quite predictable. It also got a bit convoluted and confusing. A doll within a doll within a house? I don't mind a complicated story if it makes sense, but this didn't really. I also felt there wasn't enough a backstory about Slava to explain his actions.
A promising start but a confusing end.
I love Russian dolls. There's something quite soothing about opening and arranging rows of little wooden figures. I also really like stories with a touch of Russian history, so when I read the blurb for this book, I was really excited to read it.
Matrona finds a room in her neighbour's house filled with Russian dolls that all bare a resemblance to the people in her village. Unable to resist, she touches one that resembles her father. However, when her father starts acting strangely she realises there's more to the dolls than first meets the eye. When she is later forced to open and confront what's inside her own doll, she discovers secrets that may have been left alone.
I ended up enjoying about 2/3 of this book, but about 70% in it all started to fall apart and I got really, really confused. I loved the beginning - it was atmospheric with a current of underlying tension. Everything is too perfect, and the villagers are very compliant. It creates a good build up of uneasiness, and it's alluded to very early on that something isn't right in this idyllic village when someone comments 'What is snow?', and I liked this bit of foreshadowing. The concept itself, that the villagers are all represented within Russian dolls was very unique. I loved the slow unravelling of the secrets that came with each doll opening, and was eager to read on to find out what the elusive 'fifth doll' would reveal. It felt like, with each layer, we were peeling away the layers of the characters.
I liked the relationship between Matrona and Jaska. In particular, the tension created after the reveal from the first doll opening was great. That meeting on the path was amazing, and the writing did a great job of creating such awkwardness between the two. If anything though, I though the relationship between the two could have been developed even further, and I was disappointed it took a backseat.
It was when Matrona went through that back door at Slava's that things went a bit downhill for me. The big reveal behind the secret of the 'fifth doll' felt a bit flat after the sensational reveals of the previous dolls, and also quite predictable. It also got a bit convoluted and confusing. A doll within a doll within a house? I don't mind a complicated story if it makes sense, but this didn't really. I also felt there wasn't enough a backstory about Slava to explain his actions.
A promising start but a confusing end.
June 19, 2017
I'm not one for reading blurbs. Most of the time, I jump right into a book with no knowledge of what it's about. But I read the blurb for this book and was immediately hooked. I hoped that the book itself could live up to how the blurb made me feel.
And it did.
I fell in love with this book. I read it like it was water and I was stranded in the desert. I needed to know more. Each twist in the book twisted my gut. It made me hunger for the rest of the story even as I was worried at what would come next.
This story was woven so tightly, I felt like it was a favorite sweater that I could pull tight around my shoulders. I began to feel these characters were my friends. Matrona, though naive, overeager to please, and too submissive for my taste at first, grew into a strong woman who made tough choices that effected not only herself, but her family and her village. Slava, this mysterious man who trapped Matrona into doing his bidding, ended up the greatest surprise of all. The reasonings for what he did and who he was were something I didn't see coming.
I loved the writing, most of all. The little details of the village. The lack of smiles and warm touch. The single dimple with the half-smile. The look of the sky as the story began to unfold. Each detail brought with it a images of the world the author created, bringing to life the village in which Matrona lived.
I went into this book hoping that I would like the story. Instead, I ended up loving it.
And it did.
I fell in love with this book. I read it like it was water and I was stranded in the desert. I needed to know more. Each twist in the book twisted my gut. It made me hunger for the rest of the story even as I was worried at what would come next.
This story was woven so tightly, I felt like it was a favorite sweater that I could pull tight around my shoulders. I began to feel these characters were my friends. Matrona, though naive, overeager to please, and too submissive for my taste at first, grew into a strong woman who made tough choices that effected not only herself, but her family and her village. Slava, this mysterious man who trapped Matrona into doing his bidding, ended up the greatest surprise of all. The reasonings for what he did and who he was were something I didn't see coming.
I loved the writing, most of all. The little details of the village. The lack of smiles and warm touch. The single dimple with the half-smile. The look of the sky as the story began to unfold. Each detail brought with it a images of the world the author created, bringing to life the village in which Matrona lived.
I went into this book hoping that I would like the story. Instead, I ended up loving it.
June 30, 2017
I liked this book,it had an interesting idea overall,and as was being read,those dolls were fairly creepy.
Having seen the movie the Village years back,this felt a bit like that.
A community isolated,people each with their own role...
It all went a bit different with sorcery,Russian revolutionaries and people being wooden dolls.
Enjoyable enough to have me picking up at every opportunity,but a little too predictable with its characters to go beyond "I liked it".
Having seen the movie the Village years back,this felt a bit like that.
A community isolated,people each with their own role...
It all went a bit different with sorcery,Russian revolutionaries and people being wooden dolls.
Enjoyable enough to have me picking up at every opportunity,but a little too predictable with its characters to go beyond "I liked it".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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